Three young men reflect on self-giving
In this time of the Covid pandemic, there are young people who remain focused on the importance of giving. For them, this means “giving something to another without expecting anything in return.” They believe that this generosity can even be a lifestyle.
“Giving is more than just giving money,” says Chris Perez, a 25-year old college student in Texas. “It means personal time and effort. Giving who I am. When I give, I can make an impact and improve something. It’s important.” Chris continues by sharing: “Recently, I went to a shelter to help out. When I saw the people there, I really felt that this was one concrete way to serve my community. When I saw the lives these people were coming from, it had an emotional impact on me. I was able to serve meals and clean up, doing each act in a way that helps bring everyone to their full human dignity. This experience helped me to understand the deeper meaning of giving and helped me to grow as a person.”
Filip Svibovec, 28, from the Czech Republic, talks about giving as an opportunity to work with others, which can lead to creating something together. He explains, “Each person gives their time, because they wait and listen; they offer thoughts and ideas; they share intellectual ability by thinking critically; lastly, they extend trust in order to welcome what others contribute.”
When this happens, the result is the fruit of their efforts. “It might be a final document, an event program, construction plans for a new building, or even a software program,” he says, stressing that this type of mutual self-giving usually brings satisfaction and sense of worth.
Giving can also offer new perspectives. Joe Vasquez shared a small, simple experience: “One day after work, seeing some children playing, I went over to them and gave them a sticker. They were so happy that their faces lit up with smiles. “When I went home, I was happy too, knowing that I had brought a smile to them,” Joe said. “Giving can mean giving hope to someone that goodness still exists.”
2020